Want to ensure that every podcast episode sounds crystal clear and ear-pleasing from week to week? You need to make sure that you’ve got some top-notch recording software installed on your podcasting PC. There are loads to choose from, but two of the most popular are Voicemeeter and Banana.
But what’s the difference between them? And most importantly, which is better when it comes to recording a professional-sounding podcast?
Below, we’ll take an in-depth look at each of them and decide, once and for all, the superior of the two.
Table of Contents
What is Voicemeeter?
Voicemeeter is a virtual audio device mixer that can manage any audio sources fed to or stored on a Windows PC. This includes any physical input (such as a microphone) and audio from an application.
One of the most significant advantages of Voicemeeter is the ability to mix your voice with your music player, web browser, web radio, or video game. It’s a handy tool for podcasting as it allows you to mix your voice with a range of DAWs, including ProTools.
Voicemeeter also supports any audio interface so that it can act as a bridge between applications.
Additionally, it has the power to integrate three audio input devices (2 physical and one virtual) into three audio output devices (2 physical and one virtual).
By doing this, it opens up a plethora of mixing possibilities. You can combine your voice with your music on Skype or Google Voice, which is ideal when creating a podcast or a radio show. You can also use two USB headsets on the same computer, allowing you to co-host or interview guests in multichannel mode. This makes any post-production editing much more manageable.
Given what it can do, Voicemeeter is an excellent piece of audio mixing software that gives you more power to efficiently manage the sound sources stored and fed into your computer.
What is Banana?
Banana (or Voicemeeter Banana) is basically an upgraded version of Voicemeeter. Its primary purpose is to mix and manage different audio sources to and from other audio hardware and apps.
Put in the simplest terms possible, it connects various devices with each other to provide the highest level of sound quality possible.
It features five inputs (3 physical and two virtual ones) and five outputs (3 physical and two virtual ones). It has six cells, a noise gate, and a Full Parametric EQ for all buses. This allows it to cope with diffusion and work as a crossover to drive several Stereo P.A Systems.
Banana’s software also features an integrated tape deck that can be used to record and play audio files of multiple formats with a simple click of your mouse. This includes WAV, AIFF, BWF, MP3, MP4, M4A, MOV, AVI, WMA, and WMV).
And, as if all of that wasn’t enough, Voicemeeter Banana also has two virtual ASIO drivers that allow you to connect to your preferred DAW. It introduces the concept of a ‘virtual insert’ through an additional third ASIO driver.
It is worth noting, however, that Banana only works on Windows operating systems. So if you’re currently using Mac OS or Linux, you won’t be able to use it. This is also the case for Voicemeeter.
What is the Difference Between Voicemeeter and Banana?
The most apparent difference between Voicemeeter and Banana is the number of outputs each has to offer. Voicemeeter has 3 (2 physical and one virtual), while Banana has 5 (3 physical and one virtual). Banana also possesses an integrated recorder, as well as an advanced independent equalizer on each of the bus outputs.
Another difference is that Banana features a modulation control and Master Full Parametric EQ with six cells and eight channels. This isn’t something that Voicemeeter offers at all.
Which is better?
It’s usually hard to pick a winner when pitting two pieces of recording equipment or software against each other. However, in the case of Voicemeeter VS. Banana, we’re confident that there is an outright champion.
We’re crowning Banana as our winner.
This is because it’s an improved version of Voicemeeter that can offer more in terms of delivering superior sound quality. And that’s exactly what you want from audio mixing software, especially when producing a podcast.
Here are just a few ways it can enhance your audio recording experience:
- You can mix your voice with music to create podcasts or radio shows.
- You can record interviews or panel shows in multichannel.
- You’re able to manage different audio computer sources easily.
- It can be used to communicate with remote players during a competitive gaming session.
- It allows you to make tutorials with various audio and video captures.
User experience
User experience is an essential factor when deciding between two devices. Based on product reviews, Voicemeeter and Voicemeeter Banana are excellent choices with almost identical features.
The main difference is that Voicemeeter Banana offers more channels, making it a better choice if you regularly require more than one physical or virtual input/output. Some users prefer Banana because of this, but ultimately the decision between these two depends on how many inputs or outputs you need.
Whichever you choose, you’re sure to be happy with the results!
Price
We haven’t mentioned the price for either Voicemeeter or Banana because they are free to download and use! In-app purchases allow you to access different parts of it, which the more experienced audio producer might want to take advantage of.
This makes both pieces of software a fantastic choice for anybody new to podcasting or for anyone trying to produce a high-quality show on a limited budget. However, although both are free, Voicemeeter Banana will offer you the ability to take your show to the next level.
Conclusion
If you’re serious about taking your podcast to the next level, or if you’re starting and want to make sure that your show sounds as professional as possible, then Voicemeeter Banana is the tool for you.
The mixing and managing opportunities it offers will ensure you can produce the high-quality sound you’re craving and that your audience will feel comfortable listening to.
Is there a downside to Voicemeeter and Voicemeeter Banana? The only real disadvantage is that they can only be used with Windows operating systems. So, if you’re adamant that this is the software for you, but you own a Mac, you’ll have to change your PC.
Frequently Asked Questions
Why does my Voicemeeter crackle?
It could be the buffer size. If buffers are too small or the wrong size for specific software, they can result in crackles or dropouts.
Why can’t I reinstall Voicemeeter?
When you uninstall Voicemeeter, it’s essential to ensure all its components are completely removed. If you remove Voicemeeter without a reboot, some of its components might remain, and re-installation of the program cannot be performed.
How to optimize latency in Voicemeeter?
The best way to optimize your latency in Voicemeeter is by selecting the A1 output device and using an ASIO driver with a buffer size of around 256 samples. If you don’t have an ASIO driver, try using WDM/KS instead.
Do Windows updates affect Voicemeeter?
One of the most common problems from a WIN10 or 11 update is how it impacts audio driver installation. If you’re experiencing problems with Voicemeeter after updating your OS, it’s best to report this issue to Microsoft directly.
